Biden’s personal office announced last week that the 82-year-old had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that had spread to his bones.
Former President Joe Biden on Friday attended his grandson’s high school graduation in Connecticut, marking his first public appearance since announcing his prostate cancer diagnosis.
Speaking briefly at Connecticut’s Bradley International Airport, Biden told a small group of travelers that he was “feeling great,” according to local ABC affiliate WTNH. Video footage from the outlet showed him receiving scattered applause as he entered the terminal with an entourage of security detail from the U.S. Secret Service and Connecticut State Police.
The evening before, Biden dined at a restaurant in Lakeville, Connecticut, according to photos posted by the owner to social media.
Biden’s personal office announced last week that the 82-year-old had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that had spread to his bones following a doctor’s visit because of “increasing urinary symptoms.” A follow-up statement on May 20 said that Biden had not been previously diagnosed with prostate cancer and had not been tested for it in more than a decade.
Biden’s most recent physical exam as president took place in February 2024. His physician, Kevin O’Connor, did not identify any signs of cancer in that report, describing Biden as a “healthy, active, robust 81-year-old male who remains fit to successfully execute the duties of the Presidency.”
Biden’s health became a focus during his re-election campaign. He had maintained he was fit to run for and serve a second term as president, despite a poor debate performance against then-Republican candidate Donald Trump that ultimately led to his withdrawal from the race.
Reacting to the news of Biden’s diagnosis, Vice President JD Vance wished the former president well but also questioned whether he had been fit for presidential duty.
“This is not child’s play, and we can pray for good health, but also recognize that if you’re not in good enough health to do the job, you shouldn’t be doing the job,” he said.
By Bill Pan
